California Senate Bill SB1104

California 2025-2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/13/26
• Refer: 2/26/26
• Refer: 4/9/26
• Report Pass: 4/22/26
• Refer: 4/23/26

Caption

An act to amend Sections 1798.99.80, 1798.99.82, 1798.99.86, and 1798.130 of, and to add Section 1798.99.87.1 to, 1798.99.80 and 1798.99.82 of the Civil Code, and to add Section 12815.5 to the Government Code, relating to privacy.

Impact

The proposed legislation seeks to strengthen California's existing privacy laws by requiring data brokers to define their data collection practices explicitly. By enhancing transparency around how consumer data is handled by data brokers, this bill would foster greater accountability and may influence data management standards across the state. It also establishes a framework for a 'privacy preference tool' that enables consumers to define their data privacy preferences, aimed at allowing consumers to manage their own information more effectively within the digital landscape.

Summary

Senate Bill 1104, amended by Senator Cabaldon, introduces modifications to the California Consumer Privacy Act of 2018 (CCPA) and the California Privacy Rights Act of 2020 (CPRA). The bill aims to enhance consumer protections regarding personal information collected by data brokers. Specifically, it requires data brokers to maintain and provide consumers easier access to their personal information, including methods for deletion requests. Notably, the bill mandates businesses to establish new communication channels, such as email, for consumers to submit their information requests, improving accessibility and compliance with consumer rights.

Sentiment

The overall sentiment surrounding SB 1104 appears to be positive from advocates of consumer privacy, who argue that the bill represents a pivotal step towards empowering consumers in managing their personal information. However, concerns have been raised about the potential burden on businesses, particularly small enterprises, to comply with the additional requirements imposed by extensive reporting and consumer interaction protocols. The balance between consumer rights and business operational capabilities will likely continue to be a contentious topic amongst stakeholders.

Contention

While there is significant support for improving consumer privacy, notable points of contention include the implications for data brokers and how the requirements could affect small businesses. Critics emphasize that the added burdens from the bill's provisions—such as detailed disclosures and maintenance of the privacy preference tool—may pose substantial operational challenges. Moreover, the implications of the financial penalties outlined for non-compliance will need to be weighed against their potential impact on a rapidly evolving industry where data practices are continuously under scrutiny.